Canada Orders TikTok to End Business Operations While App Remains Available to Users

Canada Orders TikTok to End Business Operations While App Remains Available to Users

By Marcus Bennett

November 18, 2024 at 12:42 AM

Canadian flag and Prime Minister Trudeau

Canadian flag and Prime Minister Trudeau

The Canadian government has ordered TikTok to cease its business operations in Canada following a national security review, though Canadian users can still access and use the app.

Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne announced the decision based on security concerns related to ByteDance Ltd.'s TikTok Technology Canada Inc. The order follows recommendations from Canada's security and intelligence community.

Key points about the ban:

  • Only affects TikTok's business operations in Canada
  • Does not restrict Canadian users from accessing or using TikTok
  • Will result in hundreds of job losses at TikTok's Canadian offices
  • TikTok plans to challenge the order in court

TikTok's response indicates the platform will remain available for creators and businesses, despite the operational shutdown. The company spokesperson confirmed they will pursue legal action against the decision.

Context:

  • Canada banned TikTok on federal devices in February 2023
  • The U.S. House passed a bill in March 2024 requiring ByteDance to divest TikTok ownership or face a ban
  • The potential U.S. ban would take effect in January 2025
  • TikTok has been banned on U.S. federal devices since 2020

The Canadian government advises citizens to exercise caution and assess cybersecurity risks when using social media platforms.

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